Ca Tru.
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The centre will then host an exhibition introducing the exam system and a seminar discussing Vietnamese’s male Ao Dai, on November 18. Hanoi's traditional tea culture will be in the spotlight at the Vietnam’s Heritage House (87 Ma May Street), featuring the participation of tea masters.
There are many things traditional to Vietnam yet deeply impress people from all over the world. Ao dai is one of them. Unlike many other traditional costumes, Ao dai still remained popular and influencial in the modern day Vietnamese culture. Although Ao dai is no longer worn by men, nor do women on a daily basis, in special occasions, they are still used widely.
Ao dai is still women favorite dress in traditional festivities or occasions such as Tet, wedding or graduation. In some high schools and universities in Vietnam, the white ao dai is considered school uniform for female students.
The beauty of Vietnamese women is honoured thanks to Ao dai, so it is hard to think of any outfit better-suited the Vietnamese than Ao dai itself. Ao dai, therefore, is an ideal souvenir for foreign tourists upon leaving Vietnam, to remind them of a beautiful country that they have been to.
Meanwhile, visitors to Kim Ngan Temple (42 - 44 Hang Bac Street) will be introduced to folklore musical art forms of ca tru (ceremonial singing) and cheo (traditional opera). Ca Tru is an ancient genre of chamber music featuring female vocalists, with origins in northern Vietnam. For much of its history, it was associated with a geisha-like form of entertainment, which combined entertaining wealthy people as well as performing religious songs for the royal court.
The programme, held to celebrate Vietnam Cultural Day (November 23), is part of an action plan of the Hanoi Old Quarter’s managing board to promote the area’s cultural values and boost the city’s tourism.
